BJP Candidate Naresh Roy Faces Backlash Over Alleged Gandhi Remarks in Jalpaiguri
A political storm has erupted in Jalpaiguri after a video went viral on Monday, allegedly showing BJP's Dhupguri candidate Naresh Roy making derogatory remarks about Mahatma Gandhi. The video, shared by the Trinamool Congress on social media, has triggered sharp criticism from opposition leaders, with Roy maintaining his comments were taken out of context.
Viral Video Shows Alleged 'Deshdrohi' Comment
The controversial video, which reports indicate could not be independently verified for authenticity, allegedly shows Naresh Roy referring to Mahatma Gandhi as a "deshdrohi" or traitor. This footage quickly circulated online, drawing immediate condemnation from Trinamool Congress senior functionaries.
Trinamool leaders Kunal Ghosh and Shashi Panja launched a scathing attack on Roy and the BJP, accusing them of dishonoring national icons and Bengal's historical figures. "This controversy reveals BJP's political culture and mindset," Panja stated, adding that the party disrespects India's history and the legacy of the freedom struggle.
Trinamool Congress Launches Strong Criticism
Kunal Ghosh went further in his criticism, suggesting that it was unsurprising a BJP candidate would make derogatory remarks against Gandhi because the BJP "is a party of the worshippers of Nathuram Godse", Gandhi's assassin. This pointed accusation highlights the deepening political tensions in the region ahead of elections.
The Trinamool Congress has used the viral video to question the BJP's respect for national symbols and historical figures, positioning themselves as defenders of India's freedom struggle heritage.
Roy Claims Misinterpretation and Lack of Context
In response to the growing controversy, Naresh Roy has firmly denied any disrespect toward Mahatma Gandhi. The BJP candidate maintained that only a small portion of his speech had been circulated without proper context, calling it a deliberate ploy to spread confusion about his political stance.
"I have immense respect for Gandhi," Roy asserted, explaining that his comments had been misinterpreted. He suggested the selective editing of his speech was part of a political strategy to undermine his candidacy in Dhupguri.
Political Implications in West Bengal
This controversy emerges amid heightened political activity in West Bengal, where:
- Parties are positioning themselves on historical and ideological grounds
- Respect for national icons has become a frequent point of political debate
- Social media plays an increasingly significant role in shaping political narratives
- Local elections often involve heated exchanges about historical interpretation
The authenticity of the video remains unverified, but its political impact is already being felt across Jalpaiguri and beyond. As both parties exchange accusations, the incident underscores how historical figures like Mahatma Gandhi continue to be central to contemporary political discourse in India.
